“Purple Hearts Reunited has been a blessing to me. I had no idea so many people cared so much about an old soldier as to go the lengths of trouble and expense to return the Purple Heart that was lost so long ago.

I owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. Robert Blum, who purchased the Purple Heart in an antique store and traveled many miles to make the presentation; Mr. Paul Marquis, who knew how to begin the quest for its owner; and Capt. Zachariah Fike, who, at great personal expense, fulfilled that quest, traveling many miles and conducting a memorable ceremony to bring it full circle. There are no words adequate to express my gratefulness to all involved.

While bringing back some difficult memories, there were also many new wonderful memories made with dear friends, family and previously unknown brothers in arms. The members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart added to the feeling of brotherhood that crossed the boundaries of age and time. It was a time of remembrance and sharing; a time of lifting each other up and respectfully acknowledging the valor and sacrifice of all soldiers of all times.

It was a great day to be an American”.